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You Want Snoring Solutions -
... and it's not CPAP. You Want Alternatives to CPAP...

You can't sleep. You can't fall asleep. You can't stay asleep. You wake too early in the morning. You finally drift off way too late at night. You are far from being yourself lately. Your health is suffering. You want answers; now. More than that – you want solutions. . .

 

Isn't CPAP a Sleep Apnea Treatment Alternative? Read more...

CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure – generally considered as “the solution” by health care professionals. CPAP is almost always the initial prescribed therapy by sleep centers, for people experiencing sleep apnea. Unfortunately, many do not immediately consider alternatives to CPAP when making this difficult to uphold prescription. The specially designed mask is worn by the patient while sleeping. The mask uses pressure, sending air flow through the nasal passages and this influx of oxygen prevents the throat from collapsing during sleep. Ultimately, the patient is able to breathe freely and eliminate the ‘apnea’’ from occurring during the night.

There are added benefits to this appliance as well. Wearing the mask will reduce and even stop snoring all together, allowing your bed partner a better night’s sleep. CPAP can also decrease headaches, nasal dryness and irritated eyes; all symptoms of sleep apnea. Sufferers must wear the mask each and every night as this appliance only offers a temporary solution.

While CPAP is the most frequently prescribed treatment option - it is equally as unpopular. After using CPAP for an extended amount of time, a high percentage of patients have indicated they detest the appliance and want alternatives to cpap. Here’s the reasoning behind it:


When used as intended and by following proper direction, CPAP has a high rate of success – close to 100%. The problem unfortunately, is CPAP is a difficult appliance to commit to. The device requires that the mask cover your mouth and nose and be worn consistently night after night. Preferably, it should be worn all night long. A large percentage of people that employ the device, regrettably wear it for 4 hours (or less) every night. That results in a success rate between 23% - 45%.

There are additional problems associated with CPAP. The straps of the mechanism can lead to facial breakouts and the appliance lends itself to irritated eyes and nose, a runny nose, dryness of the mouth and sore throat. Patients using CPAP will find difficulties with the device if they suffer from allergies, habitually breathe through their mouth or tend to sleep on their stomachs. After using CPAP for a time and discovering the treatment isn’t working for them, patients often benefit from oral appliance therapy or other such alternatives to CPAP.

 

Frequently Asked questions About CPAP -
Common Inquiries

What is CPAP?
CPAP stands for Continuous Positive Airway Pressure. While you sleep, a machine is used to rectify sleep apnea symptoms and aid in the prevention of snoring.

How does it work?
A continuous air flow is forced through your nose with CPAP. When your muscles relax during sleep, this steady pressure prevents your airways from collapsing. The result – you maintain a constant oxygen level throughout the night.

Can CPAP cure sleep apnea?
No. CPAP cannot cure sleep apnea. It’s a temporary solution preventing from the suffering of symptoms.

Do I need a prescription for CPAP?
Yes. You require a prescription to purchase a unit.

Are there different types of CPAP machines?
Yes, there are three basic types:

Are there alternatives to CPAP?
Yes. A change in diet or lifestyle can alter certain patients’ sleep apnea. Oral appliances – a device used in re-positioning your jaw and/or tongue - are available. In extreme and severe cases, some people require surgery.

Do I have to use CPAP every night?
Yes. The benefits of CPAP are only obtained when instructions are precisely followed and this includes wearing the device nightly. Even missing one night can result in an episode of sleep apnea.

What if I have to travel?
The CPAP machine is able to be transported. If flying, talk to the airline ahead of time to make arrangements or determine their policy, Your CPAP machine may be damaged if you include it in your checked luggage so plan to carry it on.

When travelling by car or planning on a camping trip, CPAP machines are available with options. Research units that can run on batteries or can operate while plugged into your car lighter.

Will my insurance cover CPAP?
Sleep apnea is a serious condition and has been linked to numerous health problems. Insurance policies vary, however, most will cover CPAP. It’s in their best interest to cover this unit as a preventative measure.

If you have mild to severe sleep apnea, or snore heavily, call or email us today. We will help you to identify the sleep apnea treatment that is right for you.

As a preferred LVI dentist, Dr. Curtis Westersund has a great understanding and experience in recognizing and determining the cause of your sleeplessness. Taking into account a number of factors - including your symptoms, you gender, your age, your medical history and your current emotional state – Dr. Westersund will provide you with a full analysis and provide you with answers . . . .  and the solutions.

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Gain Control of Your Life Again and Find Alternatives to CPAP - Today.

Sleep deprivation can lead to serious medical problems and when improperly treated, can increase the risks on your health. Choosing a sleep-disorders dentist who is qualified to work with you is crucial to your health or the health of a loved one.  

Waking up is hard to do...

Dr. Westersund continues to evolve by constantly increasing his skills and knowledge to include the treatment of various sleep disorders.

You can gain control of your days by letting Dr. Westersund take care of your nights. Contact our office today and find out which one of the treatment options best suits your sleep (or lack thereof) situation.

 

To optimize your health and get answers to your snoring-, sleep apnea-, insomnia-, and all sleep disorder questions, your search is over.

Contact Dr. Westersund today at
(403) 262.9898

 

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